LEAKED! First Images Of The 2018 JL Wrangler

Early images of the 2018 Wrangler have been leaked, confirming previous rumors and backing upa lot of spy photography. Originally reported on by our friends over at JL Wrangler Forums, the black and white photo is a bit grainy, but reveals several key import elements that have been long rumored as significant changes to the Wrangler line up. According to the forums, verified anonymous sources have confirmed these images are of the 2018 JL Wrangler.

2018 Wrangler Uses Relatively The Same Structure

This had always been a concern with Jeep loyalists, thankfully Jeep has paid special attention and came up with a design that still maintains the legendary form, while also retaining the same solid frame and fixed roll cage as previous generations. Overall, the exterior features of the 2018 JL Wrangler are minor cosmetic tweaks and updates, while also incorporating the use of aluminum into the design of the body.

2018 JL Wrangler Removable Doors & Roof

In addition to maintaining the legendary form, it seems that Jeep has also kept the important versatility of being able to remove the top and doors off of the 2018 JL; recent spy photos captured the new JL Soft Top out testing. These are important structural distinctions that have set the Wranglers apart from other SUVs and a major selling point for the brand.

Tilted, Foldable Windshield & Taller Windows

One of the earliest rumors surrounding the redesign involved a tilted windshield. This was always a recognized solution for improved aerodynamics, in order to increase gas mileage, but the fear was that it would cut down on headroom and prevent the windshield from folding.

2018 JL Wrangler Exterior Styling Changes

Along with the angled windshield, there are several other exterior styling changes that give the 2018 JL Wrangler a more modern look. A noticeable change involves a defined center-line that runs throughout the side of the Jeep and feeds into an elongated hood that seems to have less of a forward rake.

The 2018 JL Wrangler Rubicon model, shown in the photo, still retains the hood bulge and side vents found on the previous Hardrock edition, like what we saw on the hood that was mistakenly sent to a JK owner. The hood latches seem to have been moved forward and closer to the edge, in an effort to possibly address hood flutter during highway speeds.

2018 JL Wrangler Front Facelift

Extending past the hood, the front grille seems larger with a more blunt upright stance. The iconic 7 slats remain, but seem to have a bend to possibly help with aerodynamics. A contributing factor that gives the grille a larger appearance is the removal of the turn signals, which now seem to be relocated to the side mirrors.

The fender position is important because it indicates more clearance for larger tires. Following the fender line there’s a boomerang indentation along the front fenders to indicate a styling design or functional side engine vent.

Larger Bumpers For The 2018 JL Wrangler

A noticeable change in the recent Rubicon photo involves a larger front bumper. Although it’s not clear if the bumper is made of steel or plastic, the form resembles the styling of recent steel Hardrock editions. The fog lights have been be repositioned towards the outer edges of the bumper for improved lighting visibility.

Although there are still several unanswered questions, this recent photo of the upcoming Rubicon has helped clarify several assumptions and rumors. In the coming months we hope to see more glimpses of the upcoming JL model, so stay tuned to our blog for the most up to date coverage; the “Official Press Release” is still a few months away as well as initial production, so we can only image what else is going to leak between now and then.

Is this how you hoped the 2018 JL Wrangler would look? Comment your thoughts below!